LGBTQ+ AFFIRMING

Gender Diversity & Inclusion Consultation

 
icon-consultation.png
 

Create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

As a forward-thinking business, organization, or school, you’re on a mission to create the conditions for all members of your community to thrive. However, when it comes to gender diversity, you don’t know where to start.

 
 
A rainbow appears on the eyelid of a person who’s eyes are closed. Their head rests on an outstretched arm of another person.
 

If you’ve found yourself wondering any of the following, my consultation services may be right for you:

  • What are diverse gender identities? Is that the same as transgender or is it something else?

  • I know pronouns are important, but I’m not sure how to incorporate that into our organization without making people feel put on the spot or confused.

  • How do you handle unintentionally misgendering someone?

  • How do you know you've misgendered someone?

  • What does being inclusive really mean?

  • Surely there's more to it than just saying we’re inclusive, but I’m not sure what.

 
 
 

Cate Desjardins, LMSW

they / them

I think all people deserve to feel safe and welcome everywhere they go. While the creation of safe spaces specifically for LGBTQ+ people has and continues to be necessary and vital, I think the next step is making anywhere and everywhere a safe space for LGBTQ+ people.

Cate Desjardins wears a blue shirt and orange hat

Let’s start with your organization.

GENDER DIVERSITY & INCLUSION CONSULTATION


How it works

Depending on the needs of your organization, I’ll create a customized curriculum to help you create a sustainably inclusive system. Consulting may consist of the following:

 
 

workshops

Workshops for employees or members on diverse gender identities (e.g. Trans 101 or Nonbinary 101).

Trainings

Employee trainings regarding best practices for a gender inclusive business.

Assessment

Assessment and evaluation of existing practices and policies regarding gender diversity and inclusivity, with specific recommended changes, if needed.

Development

Development and implementation of changes to practices and policies, or creating new policies and practices regarding gender diversity and inclusivity.

 
 

Attend a virtual workshop

If you’d like to get a sense of my consulting style before contacting me, I invite you to attend one of my virtual Gender Diversity & Inclusion workshops. I teach topics such as, Trans 101, Nonbinary 101, Gender Diversity 101, Creating A Call-In Culture, and more.

These monthly virtual workshops are announced via email. Sign up below to be notified about future workshops:

 

Frequently Asked Questions


+ What is your consulting rate?

My rate varies widely depending on the size of the organization, scope of the project, and amount of facilitation needed. Schedule an initial consultation here to get started.

+ Do you work with schools, colleges, and universities?

Yes, I provide consultation to schools, colleges, and universities. I started my social services career as a student program coordinator within the Eastern Michigan University Department of Diversity and Community Involvement.

+ What types of businesses have you worked with in the past?

I have consulted with psychotherapy clinics in the Metro Detroit area, elementary and high schools, doula and midwifery practices, and community service organizations.